The linear arrangement of epidermal cells, which is typical for monocots, can be seen in this strip of a fresh papyrus leaf. The epidermis cells form a close cover. The normal epidermal cells have a long shape and lack chloroplasts in contrast to guard cells. Guard cells have cell wall thickenings. The large subsidiary cells support the function of the guard cells. Figure A and B are two photographs of the same strip taken at two focus levels.